Shih Tzu Puppy Training the Gentle and Patient Way

1. Gentle Behavior Training.

If you want a gentle and well balanced Shih Tzu when it grows up you must treat your puppy with gentle training. Negative behavior must be dealt with in a consistent and kind manner, not by slapping, hitting and kicking. Positive behavior must consistently be rewarded both with praise and with treats.

A dog's behavior may be modified at any time during it's life. But it's much easier to guide the dog into correct behavior patterns as a small puppy, rather than having to fix problems. It's unfair both to the animal and the owner to let problems go unaddressed. Behavior problems will lead to frustration for both dog and owner.

2. House Training Your Shih Tzu Puppy.

House training your Shih Tzu puppy is very important. It isn't just that soiling the house is such a mess, which it is. If the puppy is not house trained fairly quickly, the dog ends up at another home or at least outside. It's easy to see why proper house training is so important.

One method of training your puppy is the crate method. Confine your puppy in a crate or a small area. Puppies usually will not soil their sleeping area. Very frequently remove the puppy to an area for waste elimination. When the puppy does have an accident, you can quickly rush them to the appropriate area. But, remember, accidents will happen and do be patient and consistent.

3. Biting, Mouthing, And Chewing.

All Shih Tzu puppies will bite and chew on body parts and clothes. That's just what puppies do. But early on, this painful and destructive behavior must be stopped. Adult dogs who bite and chew are a serious problem.

If the puppy has a chance to play with other puppies, the playing will naturally teach restraint in biting. Without the interaction with other dogs, you must deal with the behavior yourself. One approach is to say "ouch" , which should be easy to do, in response to puppy bites. You can use a pained expression in your voice, but not loud or angry. Then try leaving the room for a short time.

4. Barking And Whining.

Is there a real reason for the barking or whining? Is she uncomfortable? Can you find out why? There may be a good reason. Or is this blackmail? Your puppy must be taught to handle isolation and separation. They must not expect to get everything they want.

Spend plenty of time with your puppy so they feel loved and secure. But do not accept excessive noise that is irritating to the human members of the household.

5. Socialization Tips.

A properly socialized puppy is well adjusted and will be a pleasant and valuable companion. Socialization most easily occurs before the puppy is 3 months old. Make sure early experiences are not frightening nor painful. Try some of the following.

Invite friends to meet your puppy.

Invite other pets where that's possible.

Carry your puppy to places where there are crowds of people.

Take your puppy for short car rides.

Acquaint your puppy with being bathed, brushed and inspected.

Introduce your puppy to anything and everything you wish them to be around.

There are many Shih Tzu "secrets" that professional dog trainers don't want you to know.

You can find all of them here: Shih Tzu Training.

Al Bullington writes about rural living and home business topics from his homestead in the country, surrounded by a variety of critters.